March 2008

Watching a professional auto body technician, you soon realize this is not a trade everyone can do. When it comes to giving an award winning paint job at a very reasonable price, you can rest assured that individual is right here in the great state of Missouri. Just five short years ago I had the pleasure of meeting Chris Cofield with CC Custom Graphics. At that time I had a special idea in mind when trying to a few things on the Cycle Connections Ninja. Ever since the first time I met him, Chris has truly amazed me by his quality and craftsmanship. We all have had minor oops when it comes to our motorcycles, and when you have decided to change the stock color of your bike or car, do you open the yellow pages? No, you probably turn to your buddy and ask them who they recommend.

On numerous occasions my friends have asked me who I think is the best painter in the KC area, and although there are several good painters here in the Midwest that truly deserve bragging rights, I still refer them to Chris. I consider these individuals artists rather than simple painters and body men. I have been to many bike shows and have been in the motorcycle industry since 1989, and I am especially judgmental when it comes to sportbike paint jobs. And on this subject, sportbikes require lots more patience then most realize because of all the parts and pieces that have to be painted and matched perfectly, which what you are trying to achieve when you have your stocker repainted. I am no different when it comes to a good quality job and something that just “pops” to look at. Chris has just upgraded his facility and spared no expense when it comes to his equipment so he can give his talent and his professionalism to his new customers and loyal repeat clients.

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Smokin’ Guns BBQ & Catering - North Kansas City, Missouri

By Mike Schweder

Ay, There’s the Rub — With Sauce on the Side Celebrating Five Years of Smokin’ Guns BBQ & Catering

NORTH KANSAS CITY, Mo. — When Shakespeare’s Hamlet talks “rub,” he means “problem.” When Smokin’ Guns BBQ & Catering talks “rub,” the only problem is deciding whether to eat those ribs with or without the sauce. The rub is that good.

It has been five years since Smokin’ Guns opened its doors at 1218 Swift Ave., but the rubs were already famous. They had helped owners Phil and Linda Hopkins take the grand champion title at the Jack Daniel’s World Championship Invitational Barbeque Contest, in 1999. Today their rubs are for sale in their restaurant, on the Internet and at specialty stores across the country.